A groundbreaking educational facility has been completed in Shenzhen, China, representing a new approach to school design that prioritizes community integration and cultural preservation. The Weilong School, designed by renowned architects MENG YAN and URBANUS, spans an impressive 73,511 square meters and was completed in 2024.
The architectural vision behind the project extends far beyond traditional educational facilities. According to principal architect Meng Yan, the design team approached the construction as "an opportunity to reactivate community culture." The proposal seeks not only to address educational needs but also to heal existing gaps in the city's spatial fabric while revealing valuable cultural elements embedded in the surrounding environment.
"We hope to 'nourish' the future of the district, weaving a more generous urban space and a richer urban life through the architectural design of two new schools," Meng Yan explained. This philosophy reflects a holistic approach to educational architecture that considers the broader impact on community development and cultural continuity.
The project involved extensive collaboration with multiple specialized consultants and contractors. HJ International Co., Ltd. served as the structural consultant, while Shenzhen KEDE Co., Ltd. provided acoustic consulting services. Green building certification was handled by Shenzhen Zhong Ji Green Building Co., Ltd., demonstrating the project's commitment to sustainable design practices.
The design team was led by principal architects Meng Yan and Wen Ting, with project management overseen by Zhang Haijun and Zeng Yi. The comprehensive design team included specialists in technical direction, landscape architecture, and interior design, ensuring every aspect of the school environment was carefully considered. Landscape development was handled by Shenzhen Sen Shi Jie Landscape and Planning Co., Ltd., while interior development was managed by Nan Jing Shang Ze Design Co., Ltd.
Construction of the facility involved multiple specialized contractors, including Guangdong Lianfu Construction Engineering Co., Ltd. as the main contractor, and Wuhan Wanshan Qingshui Construction Engineering Co., Ltd. for concrete construction. The project also incorporated advanced Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology provided by Shenzhen Qianhai Future City Technology Co., Ltd.
The Weilong School represents more than just an educational facility; it embodies a vision for how architecture can serve as a catalyst for community revitalization and cultural preservation. Through its innovative design approach, the project demonstrates how modern educational architecture can contribute to creating more vibrant and connected urban environments while honoring the cultural heritage of its location.
